What is Wisdom 6

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WHAT IS WISDOM???The moment a person realizes that reality has many faces, he/she takes the first step on the road to wisdom.

Hopstakens Newsletter the breathtaking 6th edition December 22, 2006

This edition is dedicated to all DDU alumnae & alumni around the world

This newsletter is published by Loek Hopstaken of Hopstaken Bedrijfsadvies, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

(www.hopstaken.com). Intended publics: Loeks personal international network, including many former students atDDU of both himself and his pal Peter van Oosten. Regular contributors: Peter van Oosten, Larry OConnor, Thu Le

Lan. Liu Tian Jian (Joe), Tran Thi Huyen Nga (Anna). This editions guest contributors: Nguyen Thi Thuy Lan (Lan) &

Vo Ngoc Lien Huong (Jane); Photos: Peter & Loek; Zhou Lincheng (Apple); Vo Ngoc Lien Huong (Jane); Trong Tam

Nguyen (Tommy); Wendy Jansen; Liu Fans (Sarahs) friend; Evert Jan Deelstra, Nga Trans (Annas) colleague.

All correspondence: [email protected] .

1. Welcome to this breathtaking 6th Edition!!! by Loek Hopstaken

Squeezing What is Wisdom??? No. 6 into existenceThese last months of the year are the busiest, and the fastest its all about completing tons of actions and projects,

setting priorities and making choices. Thats why this edition is a tiny bit smaller than the previous ones. In my case, the

busy-ness of business meant delivering a high number of workshops and coaching sessions; in November I beat my

own record. And yet, in that same month, there was quality time spent with family and friends, by taking walks and

making pictures, and doing other things that lift the spirit. When life is so busy, challenging, productive, inspiring, one

feels so positively alive that all problems seem solvable. The more intensive life is, the more breathtaking moments it

brings. And when not one, but two computers crash within two weeks, eating up many hours and delaying work on this

edition of What is Wisdom???, one has no time to wonder: What is wisdom??? When youre flying high, who cares?

There is only one solution to this situation: act, just do it. So here it is, and I hope you like the result of our attempt to

squeeze this edition into existence. Contributors include Liu Tian Jian (Joes second article), Thu Le Lan (her second

article!), Nguyen Thi Thuy Lan (Lans article, originally written as a school assignment), Huyen Thi Nga Tran (Annas

second article) and Vo Ngoc Lien Huong (Jane). So hooooooraaaaay!!! for our Vietnamese internes, you did a greatjob! And Im glad Larry OConnor continued his life story.

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. 1
http://www.hopstaken.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.hopstaken.com/


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As usual, we have tried to collect pictures from alumni & alumnae our portfolios appear to be the first section you,

our dear reader, turn to when you receive this newsletter.

The Wealthiest Person on EarthHere you see a thoroughly happy person. Hes drinking a cappuccino with Lien Huong (Jane), who took the picture.

She is one of a few DDU alumni/alumnae who stick around in Holland: for work & study, before their inevitable

return home. You may have noticed that I enjoy meeting former students. However, as Im writing this, more and morealumni and alumnae, like Jane, go home, to start a new life. Luo Man (Romana) left for Nanning a few weeks ago, sodid Nguyen Thi Thuy Lan (Lan, for Ho Chi Minh City) and Nguyen Thi Hai Ha (Jenny, for Hai Phong). Ngoc Tuan

Linh Chu (Joey) will leave December 29 for HCMC. Only rarely they return, like Chen Yan (Morgan), and Deniz Tatli

- now mrs. Deniz Kooij.


Left: goodbye to Jenny & Joey, & hello! to Deniz in Tea Rose, the English tearoom in Deventer. Right: goodbye,Romana!

DDU as it once was, a lively school, a real personal university, one of its kind, will soon be history. You ask, How

soon? The latest news is that DDU will continue to operate until next year July, to enable the current students to

graduate. Meanwhile, most teachers have moved on to new schools, or started new careers. And me? I just continue

what Ive been doing before I started teaching in March 2003, and have been doing since. Yes, you could say its my

BATNA. My work as a trainer / consultant is already taking up much more time, as teaching at DDU is now limited to

two hours per week. And yes, I keep dreaming about working in China and Vietnam on a regular basis, as a trainer /consultant, for lets say, one month per every three months. I know some of you are on the look out If in any way

possible, I want to go east and meet many of you in 2007. Then you too will see a very happy person in front of you.


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December 13, room 202: exam Promotional Management

Currently, I run three educational programs in three companies. Programs that consist of workshops, coaching sessionsand consultancy. While this kind of work has been my profession for many years, teaching at DDU has provided me

with more knowledge and deeper insights in many fields. Sometime ago one of my clients told me, Ive grown more

intense, more involved with people the participants of my workshops. When he told me this, I knew exactly what he

meant, and understood how this has come to be. You see, teaching is not only a teacher transferring knowledge to

students. Its also students teaching their teacher. And I can safely say that going to DDU for over three-and-a-half

years has been an academic education for me as well. One that taught me so much Im still digesting the knowledge andinsights, gained during hundreds of practical assignments, or should I say: productive and intense interactions. An

education without a diploma, but instead, a whole new group of friends, some good, some close. Some feel like they are

friends for life. No kidding.

A few of these friendships started during our teacher & student role play, although usually they started to develop

after graduation. If I have some time, often very early in the morning, or early in the evening, and I feel like having a

chat, Im online. And yes, I thoroughly enjoy having a drink, a lunch, or a dinner with one of my new friends who stick

around. Or we go to a pretty sight, such as the new Butterfly Pavilion, in the Amsterdam Zoo. Sometimes we talk

about the old days, someone needs a mental boost, or some help is needed with a document. Yes, the dreaded IND

still communicates in Dutch with foreign nationals. Most of the time, however, we talk about current affairs and future

dreams. If someone would have told me this would become an important part of my life a few years ago, I would have

thought he/she was nuts. Me? Mid fifties? Making friends with people who are my kids age? Yet, I have become the

wealthiest person on earth never before have I been so rich in friends. So if you were wondering why the guy above

looks so happy its wealth. Some call it love.

DDU produced hundreds of alumnae & alumni. Look below for the etymology of these fancy words. And youll

understand what good education really does to a person.


December 16: DDU alumna Tina and DDU student Tommy enjoying the Deventer Charles Dickens Festival


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October 23: this team reached a brilliant second position in a national soccer competition. This could only be

accomplished with the participation of some noted DDU students

2. What do you know? selected by Loek Hopstaken

2.1 How to work better

A wise advice in Tate Modern, London.

2.2 Alumnus/alumna (Noun)Pronunciation: [-'lm-ns/-'lm-n]

Definition 1: A (male/female) graduate of an educational institution.

Usage 1: Today's words form a masculine-feminine pair. Each has a Latin plural. The plural of the masculine alumnus

is alumni, like a few other Latin borrowings ending on -us, e.g. cumulus-cumuli, focus-focibut genus-genera, opus-

opera. The plural of the feminine alumna is alumnae, like antenna-antennae. English nouns that keep the Latinneuter plurals use a, like medium-media (the US media are not is), addendum-addenda, and memorandum-

memoranda.



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ARTICLES WRITTEN BY GUESTS

3. Is it easy for women to balance career and family? by Thu Le Lan

First of all, I want to emphasize that everything I state in this article is merely my personal opinion. So, some may find

it true while others may find otherwise.

Finding a balance between career and family is no easy matter in any culture, but it seems more difficult for women,

especially in such an oriental culture as Vietnam.

While their husbands can dedicate most time for work, Vietnamese women must create a right balance between their

home and workplace. They have fewer options regarding work/home balancing than their husbands. Almost all

Vietnamese men are free from day-to-day family responsibilities cooking, washing, and house cleaning, since they

have their wives to take care of these. They are born to be the bread earners of the family. Their only duty seems to

ensure their growing familys financial security at present and in the future.

Otherwise, Vietnamese women have been cemented with family for centuries. As a remnant of Confucius ideology, it

is a womens duty to dedicate most of her time to her family. Her career is of secondary importance. In Vietnam, we

have a saying: A spoilt child is either his/her mothers fault or his/her grandmothers, implying that women must take

full responsibilities for taking care of and teaching their child/children.

Although things have changed in this day and age when we are all growing up to become individuals, the workplace,

society, and women (in my country) themselves, however, have yet to reconcile work with family. If you have a child

of less than 6 years old, meaning he/she is not old enough to go to primary school, you will have less and less time for

work, particularly when you have neither your parents/parents-in-law nor a charwoman to help you, or a nanny to take

care of the child when you are out for work. This also means you may miss various job opportunities. In Vietnam, if

you stop work entirely to spend all day for your family, its hard to resume your career in 3-4 years. Companies are

reluctant to employ a mother who has quit her job for years. Also, flextime or part-time jobs for working moms are not

always available.

In most cases, women in my country choose to carve out their own jobs, instead of quitting them, to have more time for

their child/children when they are not old enough to go to school, to pursue a career with the role of mom. And, almost

all are happy with their choices. They can have it all once they accept that they cannot devote 100 percent to onewithout allowing the other to suffer. Balance may not be an even 50/50 split between career and family. Some women

feel balanced with a 60/40 split, while others choose to put more emphasis on family. We may follow different paths,

but all aim at the same goal a happy life, I think.

So, in conclusion, I would like to quote my old bosss saying, which I always bear in mind, A happy life comes when

you want to go to work in the morning and want to go home in the evening.

4. The 10 main reasons for being honest in business relationships by Nguyen Thi Thuy Lan

There are so many different reasons (and maybe: too many!) for honesty in business relationships, but - according to

what I have learnt - I would like to show you the 10 reasons, which are really necessary for business and for business

relationships. Before all, though, I would like you to know, that building relationships in fact is: building trust.

One:Building the partner-trust for the long-termAs with all relationships, in business people must have a high level of trust towards their relationship-partners. If trust

is lacking, the relationship will soon come to an end.

For example: in the company business-relationships are 2-way traffic: if I am not honest with my business partners then

why would they continue to do business with me? They would not!

Two: Building the customer-trust for the long-termI believe that:

Customers do business with people they trust.

Customers prefer to do business with people who are knowledgeable, and who will deliver what they promise.

However, how do and how did companies develop this customer-trust? Trust is built on telling the truth. Companies

must maintain this principle both with internal (see below in Three) and external customers. They have to build up their

trust by doing honest things, by behaving in a honest way. A brand is a promise, and unto the end you will have to keepyour promises. The customers understand and buy the companys brand values If you do decide to build up the trust

with your customers, make sure that most of the communication is from you to them. That way, at least, you will have


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some control over what has been said and what you need to say to continue the relationship.

Three:Building the employee-trust for the long-termIn the company, you must continuously re-think who your employees are; what they deeply value, and how your

organization can manage employees abilities, responsibility, values and consistency. How can you build the employee-

trust for the long-term? What counts for the external customer (in Two), also counts for the relationship with the

internal customers, the personnel, but then brand-value is company-value and employer-value.If you don't have trust, you dont really have a relationship. Thats equally true in business and in your personal life.

Four: Building the trust in communicationCommunication means communicate between people in different levels in the company or organization. The trust in

communication is also built on a feeling of safety about being real and human. To achieve trust you must be

trustworthy. Trustworthiness is based on both your character and your competences. However, since personally Im shy

and a more or less negative-sensed person, I dont have enough self-confidence to communicate with strangers, people I

do not really know. I realize that this (my) character especially makes it difficult to build good communications and -

from there - trust in the business relationships. Im trying to change myself and to make good relationships with others.

Five:Building the trust in suppliers for the long-termBuilding the supplying relationship is focused on long-term relationships between suppliers and industrial customers.

Most suppliers try to win the customer's business or to sell the customer a product or service, rather than investing in the

time, needed to learn about customers. This makes suppliers, who do their homework, stand out in their customers'eyes. Because these suppliers are better prepared, they are able to add value in their discussions with customers and they

are able to gain much more insight about the customers and their demands. Therefore, we should try to understand our

customers, but also our suppliers; put effort into building the trust, even before we really want to do business with them.

Six:Building the trade associations trust for the long termTrade associations deal with exchanging or sharing information within a particular industry to make the market more or

less competitive, so it is important to build up trust with the trade associations; it helps them to trust you and to

understand what you stand for and what you expect. Therefore, I believe that you need to show true information about

your product, quality, and service. If your partners / customer see your information as honest information, then they will

want to do business with you.

Seven:Building the powerful leadership for the long-term

It means, building the best image in the customers or employees mind. The best leaders have found effective ways tounderstand and improve the way they handle their own and their followers emotions. Understanding the powerful role

of emotions in the workspace will enable you to achieve better real results, such as higher profits, highly developedtalents, motivation, and commitment. Therefore, if you want to be a good leader, you will have to be truly honest and

show it to your people.

My personal strengths are: having good opinions; listening to others, if needed. I think that I can be a good manager.

Eight:Marketing yourself and your productIf youre not a business professional, and if you dont have much work experience, just like me, I think you should ask

yourself: What business am I in? The answer is quite simple: if your business has anything to do with people and all

businesses do, you are in the business of building relationships. Moreover, building a relationship is building Trust.

Some people think, that, if they sell things, they are in the business of selling. They aren t. They are in the business of

building relationships because thats how you can sell things! Therefore, in the company, trust has an important link

with your organizational success.

Nine:Building a powerful first impressionIn business relationships, the customer will make decisions about you, based on your first appearance, your words and

the sound of your voice, your information. You can't make a first impression twice, so you have to present the truth and

be honest with the customer, try to get the customers listening and looking to you. Let your customers know what you

want them to do at the beginning of your talk and again at the end. When they can see youre a honest person, then you

will get a good image in their minds. I think that the customers want to feel safe before they do business, so you will

have to be honest for their first, very important impression. When an environment of trust has been created, (other)

good things start happening.

Ten:Finally, trust is the key to success in every relation, so why wouldnt it be in business relationships?I think thattrust is the basis of all enduring, long-term business relationships. Before making a purchase from you,

buyers need to trust that your products and services will be like they are supposed to be. People do business with

people, therefore you need to help your customer / partner to get to know you and trust you. For example: a picture of

you, with a natural smile; your product and your service, all in an impressive strategy on the 1st page of your marketingbrochure.
http://www.1000ventures.com/business_guide/mgmt_inex.htmlhttp://www.1000ventures.com/business_guide/mgmt_inex.html


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The people you see and talk to on a regular basis are usually the ones you trust the most. Communication isnt the only

important item for developing trust, but still it is quite a critical one.

Finally, I would like to tell you that trust really is necessary to be established

in business relationships. If you want to be a good business person, you mustbe a honest person.

Note LH: This article has been written by Lan, both as part of her final choresbefore graduating, and as official assignment from the editors of Hopstakens

International Newsletter. She received an official certificate for it.

Lan now is managing a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

5. My meaning of Christmas by Peter van Oosten

In-between these two breathtaking essays of my (so completely different!

But, Oh!, so) beloved girls from Vietnam, and just a little reading time before

Janes (also from VN!) very inspirational love-story, I think its a warm-

enough place for me to compose some thoughts about what Christmas means

to me. The real inside feeling, I mean, and not so much the glitter and

glamour, which seems to be attracting most of the world at this moment.OK, agreed, it should be part of the ancient tradition of the mid-winter light-festival, which Christmas also has been.

Make the dark and the evil (and the cold!) go away, by illuminating your environment and by sitting together inside -

with your relatives and relations, warm and cozy. Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled is a

fragment from the Christmas-carol Hark the herald angels sing. So much and so deep a message in just this single

sentence! Peace on earth will be a wish for mankind, I guess, for at least some more centuries. With Christmas we do

shake hands, we embrace each other, we put kisses on cheeks and we wish each other Peace and something Merry.

The cease-fires in our global war zones fortunately still take place, but will only last for a few days, maybe hours.I do not close my eyes for those parts of reality, but Im as much part of this rather materialistic world as most of you

are, and of course I am not always busy with being social and environmental friendly and showing my Christian

believing. Come on! I also wanna live and have fun and eat junk food every once in a while! And instead of giving

my Christmas bonus away for charity buy some new stuff for my office (= my laptop) or my house or my wife or my

kids or Well, at least the goal should be pretty close to myself!

And thats exactly what mostly happens to me with and around Christmas! I feel connected with and very close towhatever kind of topic or people or individual, which or whom need(s) my special (Christmas-) attention. A thought, a

story told to my children or to other people, money for the different good purposes, attention for my own consumingbehavior, a prayer (in my own way) for all this and that, for me and mine, for you and yours, for us

My wife Annelies just told me of an old tale (in Dutch), which she had come across on the internet. Below is how I

translated it in English and I would like to end my short story with it, because I really cannot think of a better way to do

that! Be good, my dear friends!

In my dream I entered a s tore.

Behind the counter an Angel s tood

I asked: what kind of merchandise do you sell?

Whatever you want!, the Angel answered.

Oh?!, I said , real ly?

Well , in that case I would l ike to have peace on earth,no more hunger and no more poverty.

And I would l ike to get good health and a shelter ,

freedom and respec t for everyone

Please, wait a moment!, the Angel suddenly shouted,

you did not understand me right

Im sorry to say, but in here we dont sell the fruits ,

but merely the seeds,

which you should distr ibute over the earth yourself!

6.Experience is never enough by Tran Thi Huyen Nga (Anna)(Or: What should be added in project management?)

Perhaps, we have learned project management knowledge and skills in the similar business environment or somehowwe have gained it from different tastes in this life. For example, we decide to go to business campus, such as business

centers, schools, colleges, universities and institutes, to study and get a degree. From these programs, we will get to



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know or even do a practice about how to manage a project. In other words, we have gained our project management

experience in academic ways.

In contrast with this, some of us have luckily grown up in a family, whereas parents or relatives are operating various

business types. That is a wonderful chance for us to observe daily business. Lets think openly like this: a chance, which

I just mentioned, also means that business concepts and operation step up gradually in our mind. It would not be a

surprise, when the question of: how to manage our daily business in an effective way?, somehow will appear in ourthoughts. Lets try to turn our thoughts smartly like daily business give us an overview image, which helps us to see

how to manage a small or big project in daily life. More logically, we just simply consider, that our daily business

more or less has to take steps of project management, even though someone could argue, that the definition of project

is not focusing on a routine job.

Looking at the wider range of project management matters, I am very much interested in an article, that includes its

definition. Project management is a carefully planned and organized effort to accomplish a specific (and usually) one-

time effort. To be realistic, when starting a new project the first element we will have to take in our consideration is a

feasibility study to see the opportunity to achieve our goals in the way we want to gain from this project. Second step

is: planning what we are going to do in the project. How the details of our plan should be depends on the size and

purpose of the project proposal. The implementation then becomes the main step. As we know, there are many troubles

coming up under pressure. They need to be solved effectively and quickly. Going along with this project, it already gets

us to be tired. However, all strategy and steps are not enough to make us end up successfully. Still another question is

coming up: this project, is it valuable or not? Perhaps, that could be a reason for you to walk further, skip this nasty

question in the evaluation and finish up your project successfully, when only looking at its earnings, the material profit.

I am quite convinced of the fact, that the described way does not have enough elements for good project management

and why??? If I would tell you this from a deep and wise brain, it would say NOT ENOUGH. Why? Well, it simply

needs skills of strategy to adapt to any project, to make it valuable. And I also can tell all of you, that these skills of

strategy only can be gained in training, during the progress of practical exercise. It can be done in the business campus.

During my, but I think I can easily say: during our study, for many nights, we were thinking and wondering about the

teaching method of one lecturer. Most of the time, this lecturer let our teams decide what we really wanted to do or not

and he just was on the side, in case we needed support. He also encouraged us in bringing up all potential ideas.

Frankly, he left us in a pool, whereas we had to choose ourselves which directions to turn and to make up our mind ifwe wanted to win in the various circumstances. I bet some of us did have an attitude of being disappointed by what he

was doing for us. It was too little. It was too poor in his class or even it was so boring to be attending in each lesson.And more comments were going up and down, discussing this. I started to do an investigation for myself and I figured

out, that, in fact, all of us liked him very much. This lecturer took a lot of cares for us. He was thinking further, of what

could or would happen in the real world, after we left school. That is the big reason, that he left us in a pool to be free in

developing projects. The rights for each leader to take his or her own decision for the benefits or directions of his / her

teams project is such a great gift and challenge, and he was so brave to hand these over to each team leader.

Time is flying and some moments of

my life, I just take an overview to

look at the difficult matters in the real

world. I recognize that all his taught

skills of strategy are fantastic. That

has lifted me up to a higher standard

in my young career now and for thatreason I want to send many thanks to

my dear lecturer, who gave us his

quietness and sincerity and made us

wonder many times, whether he was

actually teaching or not You

really helped me to become the

project manager, which I am now!

Note PvO: My pleasure, Anna!

Thank you for your appraisal, for the

confirmation, that all the frustration

on both sides once will turn out to be

worthwhile! Dont think too lightlyabout your own willpower, though!

Nga Tran (Anna), early 2006



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7. Working in the Netherlands, while thinking Chinese by Liu Tian Jian

Recently my thoughts went back to my first step on European soil, on February 8, 2001. It has been four years since I

first saw the Dutch sunset. I always tell the other person I spent my golden age in the country of tulips and windmills.

I have been eating, reading, feeling and telling everything about this country. Sometimes I feel that this country already

is my second motherland. I love this country on some points, not all. Anyway, after four years study, fortunately I founda position in one of the small companies of this county.

Liu Tian Jian (Joe)

There is always someone who asks me: What do you think about Dutch? How do you feel about working with them?

In my personal opinion, there are three words that provide the answer.

First: Honesty. Dutch people are quite open: they are world famous for that. I mean their mind, not the usual

stereotypes about red light district, drugs and sex, but the way they think. For instance, when I worked with my

colleagues in the office, I was first ashamed to say Sorry, I cant do this, when I felt I wasnt capable to do something.

Being honest is very important, Dutch wont criticize because you are not capable of something. If you promise

something, but you cant finish it, your attempt will be appreciated. On the other hand, say and do everything you wantand think is right. Of course you shouldnt harm others. Dutch wont justify your behavior according their norms,

because you are your own, you have your own way to do things.

Second: Direct, which is especially remarkable for Chinese or Asian people like me. In our custom, we are trying to

be Mr. Good and Mrs. Good all the time. We want to be polite as much as possible. As matter of fact, direct means

you should be able to stand up and face your boss say No, I think you are wrong, if you have something in your mind

which against your boss or your colleagues opinion. Dutch dont hide their feelings. They can be very direct in

conversation, you can and you should tell your feeling and opinion. Never hide yourself or beat around the bush,

especially in Dutch business conversations.

Third: Precision. For instance, you should always be on time, be correct in your calculation. I believe some of you

know the expression GO DUTCH, which means you pay your own dinner when you go out for dinner with yourfriends. As Chinese, we always try to pay for the dinner for the others, just to show our respect and friendship. This is

not necessary in the Netherlands. What I try to say here is that Dutch prefer to be clear on the bills and numbers. Theyhave their own calculation in their mind to balance the income and outcome, precisely into every cent. I am not saying

they are cheeseparing (which is one of the fixed ideas about the Dutch), I just use it as a sample.

What I described to you were only some general opinions from a Chinese about working with Dutch, and what should

be taken into account, as compared to Chinese customs. I hope this will give you some clues to help you understand

your Dutch friends and colleagues.

8. Inspiration of Love (Getting Warm for Christmas) by Vo Ngoc Lien Huong (Jane)

What is Love? This question is always in our minds when were trying to define its exact meaning. Since millions of

quotes about Love have been and are being published, were still searching for its definition. However, life is not so

simple, and it creates different descriptions of Love in our minds, as a result of differences in our lives and experiences.

Love is something you cant describe like the look of a rose, the smell of the rain, or the feeling of forever.Kristen Kappel



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Vo Ngoc Lien Huong (Jane)

Rather than that, we have a more complex explanation of love. While pure Love to me is very simple. It comes to me as

something I used to dream about, and believing in miracles, through time I get ready to receive it.

There is only happiness in life, to love and be loved.Georges Sand

Some people say that there are more things that create happiness in life rather than Love, and Love is only one part of

life that is called happiness.

Yes Good appearance can give people happiness because they are proud of themselves, and thats a gift God gave

them, to let them be born as beautiful people. YesGood career can give the satisfaction that they are proficient

enough to get to a high position so they can be admired by others.

Yeswealth, money give people happiness through a satisfied life with all the convenient conditions, like owning large

houses, more leisure time to enjoy life, money to travel everywhere in the world, and buy everything they wish tohave

Yes, a good education can give people more time to spend, a more open minded to discover the world and something

for themselves that makes them happy; they can even use their inventiveness to create a happy life.

Yes being a humanitarian one can create happiness because the more people give to help the poor, people who live on

alms, the more they are happy to live, as they have something to devote their life to.

On the other hand, we should realize that no one can be completely happy if they dont know the meaning of loving and

to be loved in return. I have a disagreement with all the Yes statements above.

First No: a good appearance can change through time and one day people will get depressed about the loss of beauty.

True love doesnt change, it stays throughout a lifetime.

Noa good career is only one tool to prove a persons success and that glory with fame will be over when the time

arrives people retire. Moreover, without love, people wont have the energy and power to stay strong to overcome allthe obstacles they will face in life, while a person who has love can survive those hard times easier.

Nowealth cant create the great, bright, and lasting smiles as the one you have when you have love, that come to you

every minute, smiles straight from the heart. Lots of wealthy people suffer because they havent found the meaning of

their life, even if they have everything that other people wish for.

Nogood education gives people the world of knowledge, not the key to the magic world where people are hungry to

search for all their

lifetime.

And Nobeing a humanitarian surely still has its meaningbecause we are human beings, were not a saint at all even

we have plenty good manners, still, we need love in return.

Finally, Love gives you happiness and creates other happiness of life.The love of two people, the love of family, and the love with friends, buddies are all love that create happiness.

So, how we can recognize as if thats love? This really confuses us, some can realize it for a short time, some need

longer time, some for a lifetime, and some even cant find where is their true love until the end of their life.

To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.Bill Wilson



12/28


Thats The Look of Love, like in the song with the same title by Dusty Springfield I recently heard. Yes, to one

person you may be the world because in that persons eyes, you are you, and you are that person as well. This you

cannot disguise, or hide behind a mask. So, be honest with yourself with the one you love, because in that love, you will

discover yourself: I love you not only because of the one you are, but in you, I know who I am as well. This is the

way we can recognize true love. That sounds simple, but actually, this is really difficult in reality. Only people who

truly love can understand and live with it. This is the way people believe in Love. Belief is not only a thought, but

actions as well.

I remember how Peter van Oosten quoted the apostle Paul in What is Wisdom no. 5 in his article Accounting is not

related to Love:

Love is patient and is kind; love doesnt envy. Love doesnt brag, is not proud, doesnt behave itself inappropriately,

doesnt seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil; doesnt rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with

the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Yes, love works in the ways that are wondrous and strange and there is nothing in life that can change true love. Love is

really unselfish, even though people may be selfish sometimes. People can believe in all things, hope for many things,

believe in miracles, believe in dreams, hope for future, even people who dont have a future for being together, but still

want to bear all things, just to keep their love alive. Love is free like a bird, it doesnt envy at all because the bird only

feels happy where love is. Love is really priceless, pure, and takes no account at all I believe thats true love.

However, that wont be enough: true love needs to put in reality to test it. This will prove how long the love will last,

and how strong it is.

A bell is not a bell until someone rings it; a song is not a song until someone sings it. Love wasnt put in the heart

to stay, for love isnt love til you give it away.Chanh Kha

This reminds me about Loek Hopstakens article Are you a giver or a taker? in What is Wisdom no.5.

Yes, Love is balancing two sides: giving and taking. This seems mundane, even though it only works when people

consider this statement. This is because Love is the answer that everyone seeks. Love is the language that every heart

speaks. Everyone needs love, needs to be loved by someone, and needs to give love to create happiness. To give love as

much as you can to receive happiness from others side also makes us happy. Thats pure Love giving not to receive

things for your own benefit, but just to give to the one who is taking it.

LOVE IS LIFES MYSTERY

People need time to share Love, and a heart to understand.

So, to you all my friends, all I want to share with you is to give Love, give as much as your heart tells you to not

what your mind tells you to. Because whenever you still let your mind decide who and how to love, its not pure and

true love anymore. When your mind is still in doubt about the love you have, when your heart is not really beating

heavy enough whenever you have a thought about the other person, or what you have is not really coming from your

heart, but came from your mind, rethink it and make no decision. Because Love takes no accounting, no calculus at all.

Keep your heart warm in this loving season: its Christmas time.Wish you all having a merry Xmas with love, happiness, and joy.

Jane

9. Life in The Netherlands by Larry OConnor

For most, if not all of us, our lives can be broken down to into major events that change us for good. A birth, a death, a

marriage, a divorce, is just a few examples of events that change us for good. As a fairly recent example, we now live in

a world that is referenced by the events of 9-11 in order to put many aspects of our lives into perspective.

Well, just as everyone else, I have my own major dividing moments that are used as reference points to differentiate

phases in my life. These include life before my father passed away, life after the birth of my daughter, and the subject of

this article, my life after I moved from a large country to a small one in the corner of Europe.

Before I even got onto the plane to head to the Netherlands my impressions of the Netherlands began. Standing in line

at the check in at the airport I began to get a sample ofNederlanders as I stood there going through the goodbyes with

my mother and brother. I remember looking around, or should I say looking up, at the returning Dutch passengers and

thinking how tall they were, all the black they were wearing, and all that shiny gel in their hair. And of course those

garbled sounding conversations they were having were just part of the ambient sounds one hears at airports that you

dont pay much attention to.


13/28

Around eight hours later it was time to get off the plane. And even though the plane was now in the Netherlands it

represented the last vestige of my life pre-Netherlands. Getting off that plane was leaving New York and entering a new

country, and more significantly, a new culture that began a process where there was no turning back.

When ever I go to a new country, I always get a kick out of those first few minutes when you cross the border by any

means of transportation. It is those first few minutes; all those new sights, sounds, and smells that give you that crucialfirst impression of the new place you have set foot in. In this case it was Schipol, that unpronounceable airport name

that even our captain from Singapore Airlines pronounced in his Anglicized way- Scipol.

Very modern and clean, that was my first impression. There was kind of a futuristic feel to the place when I walked

around. It was the kind of gee-wow feeling. It was probably best said the opening scenes in the film Pulp Fiction whenVincent and Jules are discussing Vincents recent trip to the Netherlands. Its the little differences. A lotta of the same

shit we got here, they got there, but theyre a little different

And for the most part thats true. But for a guy like me raised on the outskirts of New York City, there are real

differences that took getting used to.

After meeting my new partner at the airport and getting over that awkward few minutes when you have to get used to a

person again after not seeing them for a while it was time to make the trip to my new home. A new home thats about asfar as one can get from the airport in the Netherlands. We were on our way to a town called Winterswijk.

I will never forget looking out the window of my partners car to get an impression of the surroundings. Half asleep

from Jet-lag I looked about the window and in a short time I noticed that for a long time the only thing I was seeing was

farms and cows. Ill never forget thinking to myself oh my God, what did I get myself into Where used to live it

might be years before I even see a farm, not to mention the cows as well.

Ok, cows and farms everywhere. This is farming country. And although Winterswijk is a very typical farming

community, I soon learned that in the Netherlands, if youre not in a city, and youre not in a housing area, and if youre

not in an industrial zone, you are on a farm. Even if you are out in nature, in the woods, for example, you are not far

from any of these areas. And by far I mean a few hundred meters.

After taking a nap in my new home, fresh off the plane, I decided that it was time to get that crucial first impression.The best way to do that was to walk into town to get a taste of what to expect.

I will never forget walking into a store, looking around, and having someone behind intruded on this the counter garble

something that I guessed meant what do you want? Now this sounds perfectly normal, but it was not what the person

said, but how it was said. It was kind of a tell me now, and dont waste any time question. I got the impression that I

was invading the shopkeepers personal space and I should be thanking our maker that she will provide me with her

goods and services.

Strangely enough, this

behavior seemed to repeat

itself in many of the shops I

visited.

Early 2005: Larry surrounded

by Joey, Vinh, Tony, Tony

Cao, Paul, Jenny, Cherry,Rachael & Anna



14/28

After a week, I cautiously told my girlfriend that I didnt get the impression that the people were all that nice. In some

cases it was perceived as somewhat rude.

She really did not have an answer, but there were some serious questions pertaining to getting used to this new culture.

Thinking that perhaps it was a language problem (which of course it turned out to be-mine that is) I decided to really

take this new language seriously. In fact, before I came to the Netherlands, I even found a Dutch language self study

program in New York. Not having much else to do, I began to study the language.

I spent week learning, what I thought was important, how to say how are you doing

After playing the tape over and over and getting the pronunciation satisfactory. Finally, after hours of practice, I tried it

out on my girlfriend and proudly said hoe gaat het met je And of course, she giggled and said great.

Now for many cultures, how are you doing is a basic greeting. In Spanish its como estas ? In French its comment ca

va? These questions are used frequently, and without much seriousness in many casual conversations. Not in Dutch. In

the Netherlands if you ask the question, it deserves a real answer. The lady at the bank has no interest telling a complete

stranger how she is doing.

Good morning, how are you today?

Oh gee, my kids are sick and I had to take the morning off work to watch them and to be honest with you, Im feeling abit sick too.

Oh, too bad, but I have a question about my account.

This just does not happen, and of course in English speaking lands, the question just gets an Im fine, how are you

response.

This basicfaux pas may seem meaningless, but it says quite a lot. People in the Netherlands are direct and the speech

reflects that. Looking through the eyes from another culture it may seem cold and non-personal.

In reality this is not really the case. It seems that way because we base our perceptions of a new culture on what we

have learned from our original one. In addition, we also, as I have done, base our opinions on what we can only see and

hear.

It is more important to take a look at the parts we cant see, such as peoples feelings or motivations. Then you get an

idea of whats going on. And just as it is all over the world, the vast percentages of people are nice. It is just a question

of how it is expressed.

Sounds simple, but it took me years to figure that one out.

Tip: for those who want to learn about our Dutch ways, study The Undutchables. (LH)

LEISURE TIME

10. Wise Quotes & Crackers from around the planet

Chance makes our parents, but choice makes our friends.

Jacques Delille (1738-1813, French poet)



15/28

To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity

and integrity.

Douglas Adams

Wise leaders generally have wise counselors because it takes a wise person themselves to distinguish them.

Diogenes of Sinope (c.410-320 BC, Cynic philosopher)

The only things one never regrets are ones mistakes.

Oscar Wilde (1856-1900, British author)

Angels fly because they take themselves lightly.Gilbert K. Chesterton (1874-1936, British author)

Many are destined to reason wrongly; others, not to reason at all; and others, to persecute those who do reason.

Franois-Marie Arouet de Voltaire (1694-1778, French historian, writer)

Who is that man again?

You dont remember? Hes the man showing his cock to theaudience! (last year November, Dutch Cultural Evening)

Saurav, Suman, Lama, Malik & Tirtha talking about Conno,

who also attended the Chinese Buffet in our canteen,

finishing off a successful afternoon of culture-in-business

presentations on December 19, 2006.

Some people consider this a romantic environment. How about you?

Though reading and conversation may furnish us with many ideas of men and things, our own meditation must form

our judgment.Isaac Watts (1674-1748, British hymn-writer)Being part of an agenda beyond ourselves liberates us to complement each other rather than compete with each other.

Joseph Stowell



16/28

The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.

Eden Phillpotts (1862-1960, Indian-born British novelist)

All human actions have one or more of these seven causes: chance, nature, compulsions, habit, reason, passion,desire.

Aristotle (BC 384-322, Greek philosopher)

Wear your learning like a watch and do not pull it out merely to show you have it. If you are asked for the time, tell it;

but do not proclaim it hourly unasked.

Philip Dormer Stanhope Chesterfield (1694-1773, British statesman, author)

a not-so-well-educated cat, in my brother-in-laws kitchen, and a Stalin bust in a public cell, The Hague

11. Love The Beatles by Loek Hopstaken

Actually, when British rock band The Beatles were the number one band on the planet, 1964 1970, I was more a fan

of the American The Beach Boys. But thats a subject for a later newsletter. Yet, listening to their music today is still a

pleasure, and new generations discover the qualities of this simple, yet effective kind of pop music. Like my generation,

new generations are singing along with old Beatles hits, and Beatle Paul McCartney, now 66, is still drawing vast

crowds who come to hear him sing the old Beatles songs.

In 1964 The Beatles gave a 30 minute concert in The Netherlands. Yes, you read that correctly: 30 minutes. It was live

on television, and all Dutch watched the event. For this performance they were paid something in the order of 14,000,-

euros, in those days a ridiculous amount of money a years salary for many.

Its been over 35 years now since The Beatles ended their career, but their music is still very much alive.

A few years ago the director of Cirque du Soleil, the world famous Canadian circus organization, approached Beatles

producer George Martin to create a soundtrack with original Beatles music for one of their shows. The result of this is a

fantastic CD which serves as a perfect introduction to the sound of The Beatles. There is also a version with an audio-

DVD, with 5.1 surround sound, which is just sensational.Name of the CD: LOVE. Get it, listen to it on a decent volume (= LOUD), and be amazed by the wonderful music, its

freshness and particularly, the sheer amount of creativity put into this project.

Recommended CDs: Rubber Soul; Revolver; Sergeant Peppers Lonely Heart Clubs Band; Abbey Road.

Note of the editor (PvO): I prefer The White Album, but Im also almost a year younger than my soul-brother Loek, and

I truly realize, that not all parts of these 2 disks are really accessible, good to listen at, if you dont have that specific

time-spirit of the late Sixties.

Come to think of it: I now more and more realize, that I somehow stole this album then!

I obtained it in not-such-an-honest way The selling price was way too cheap and therefore I should have known, thatsomething was wrong with it. And of course I knew! But I was so happy and proud! I wouldnt know of it then

Note of the other editor (LH): when the White Album came out, my first reaction was: cut out the weak numbers, andturn it into one fantastic album. With my friends we used to discuss these issues as if our lives depended on them. And

yes, Peter belongs to a younger generation sigh Those were the days, my friend, I thought theyd never end



17/28

Advertising works: Friday December 8, I see a double-decker bus in Oxford Street, London. Next day, I bought the CD.

12. What is Wisdom??? online: http://hopper1951.spaces.live.com

Since Wing and Apple convinced me that chatting was not just something for toddlers, and creating a home page not

only a way for desperate adolescents to attract attention, Im online, and updating my msn space. Im also on Yahoo!,

not in the least for the great emoticons: they move, and when used at the right time, they make me roll on the floor

laughing. I never plan a new blog, or photo album. They are always spontaneous inventions. Its a great way to share a

story, ideas and images. In many ways, they are an extension of this newsletter: they bring news a lot faster. In general,

the question: Whats up? can be easily answered by looking at someones home page, as long as its written in a

language you understand. Via my homepage you can get to several other home pages. Providing a link to the home

pages of our Yahoo! friends is a bit more complex (links are just too long); contact me if you are interested.

Meanwhile, I stimulated a few friends to start blogging: its just a modern way to meet new friends, and to be

connected to the true events in the world. These may differ from what you read in the newspapers, or see on CNN orAl Jazeerah.

Three London pics that are not shown on my msn photo album: a poster on a Victoria & Albert museum wall, self-portrait taken in a distorting mirror in the V&A shop, and Edgar Degas marvelous statue of a young ballerina, on

exhibit in the Tate Modern museum.

To give you a taste of my blog, this is the one I wrote November 21:

Making pictures is a re-discovered joy, since buying my little Sony DSC-W1 in August 2004. Its a decent camera, 5,1

mega pixels. My friend Peter stimulated me to pick up this old hobby again.



18/28


Making pictures makes you look at the world around you in a different way. Now, Im not a news photographer. I just

shoot pretty scenes, or try to catch some of the magic that surrounds us if I happen to notice it. Magic such as an

unexpected reflection, or a beautiful scenery, with natural light. Or people of course. Its true that the camera seems to

like some people more than others. The first kind always look great: relaxed, and just their natural pose improves the

picture. The other kind is nervous, and often tries to pose, and if youre not a professional model, this adds an

unnatural and sometimes even uncomfortable flavor. Very rarely I use flash, and try to keep the pictures pure: no

cutting, no color enhancements, no elaborate tricks to improve their quality. Im too amateur for that. Rarely I cut andenlarge a section, to focus on a face in a crowd, for a special effect, or a seemingly insignificant detail that sort of jumps

out as odd.

The last three photo albums I shot these past 5 days: the first album (Fall, leaves, fall) contains pictures taken at

s-Graveland, by car just 20 minutes from my home. One of the lovely parks in that area, run by Natuurmonumenten,

a foundation that takes care of our national parks and forests. The second album shows off butterflies you can see in the

Amsterdam Zoo Butterfly Pavilion. The third album is a mixed bag of shots, Sinterklaas (santaclaus) at the city hall

in De Rijp, polder scenery, Nelly near the village of Graft, Summer at Nijenhuis Castle, Louis (my Duke Ellington

buddy) at his home, and participants in a workshop I conducted in a renowned shop that sells top class pianos.

(www.vankerkwijk.nl; in Dutch.)

I hope you like what you see, and that it will inspire you to look twice at the reality around you. Theres beauty andmagic and fun if you care to look. And if you push the button on your camera, the reward is a nice picture for

yourself, and possibly, for others as well.

So, if you care to communicate, use these great means to do so, and let us share a piece of your life.

13. DDU-update and call for materials and information by Peter van Oosten

Well, Loek already told something about DDUs present situation. Weve come along further than we maybe expected,

some half year ago Its quite a thin organization, because most of the staff left or had to leave, but we have around

30 very motivated students sitting in most every exam, which we still organize!

Some of them will be able to graduate in February 2007, others will have to continue their studies, AT DDU !

And this has been at least for me, Peter van Oosten a very pleasant surprise!

Im not going to spend so many words on it Were just very happy with these developments and were also very

happy for the students. At least they will be able to (try to) finish their BA at DDU and graduate in June/July 2007.

As it is now, the coaching and support from school are quite alright. Mr. Deelstra, Loek, Caroline, me and whenever

needed another freelance teacher like Wim, are still and fully in the game. Mr. Deelstra is doing the Methodology-

part, Graduation Assignment and BA-Practical, next to cleaning up the DDU-building (with which I mean: going

through all the leftover treasures from former inhabitants, which still were in the basements and the attic), because there

might be a chance, that were going to share the building with some other organization (this would save DDU a lot of

money!).

Anyway, were doing alright, but were also downsizing, because were not going to continue the present formula

(DDU with students living in Deventer). How, what, when and who? Well just see! Dont worry, were alive and

kicking! And very happy with the positive feedback we get from our present students, here and there, like Vinh (James)in Vietnam and Karen (LiJun) in China, who had/have visa-problems and now are following the lessons by internet and

email.

Another thing:Loek and I are very interested in the subject of Humor in the different cultures, especially from those countries, where

our students originate

We of course have noticed through the years, that a joke is not a joke for everyone. This is already the case in one

room with people, and also in our country But we noticed, that Chinese people laugh about different things than

Vietnamese And Turkish, well, you probably get our point: we would like to get more insight in International Humor,

Joking all over the world

You would make us very glad, when you would give us examples of what youd like to laugh about and what not (and

also: why and why not! Just like in my exams).

Everything is possible material for us! You can always help us to translate and/or understand.

What are Loek and I going to do with the materials and the gained insight?

We havent got the slightest idea yet, but we might perform something on Graduation Day, or we might make a

presentation about this topic, which we could also distribute amongst you.

Please, help us! You know how to reach us, dont you?
http://www.vankerkwijk.nl/http://www.vankerkwijk.nl/


19/28

14. PORTFOLIO: BREATHTAKING MOMENTS

Taking her breath away: Lien Huong (Jane) visiting the Amsterdam Zoo Butterfly Pavillion

Turkish author Orhan Pamuk (Nobel Prize Winner Literature 2006) signs my copy of My Name is Red

Taking my breath away: seeing my dream house on a sunny day in November



20/28

Breathtaking event: CK, the happy mother of a baby girl

Breathtaking moments for both Peter and two of his DDU friends: Nguyen Thi Thuy Lan (Lan) & Nguyen Thi Hai Ha

(Jenny), who both returned to Vietnam shortly after completing their final graduation assignments.

Lale Ustuner, engaged to be married next spring: flanked by her fianc & best friend



21/28

13. PORTFOLIO: DDU GIRLS WILL INHERIT THE EARTH

Two DDU classmates from Guangxi now living and working in Shanghai: Liu Fan (Sarah) and Zhou Lincheng (Apple)

Liu Fan (Sarah) representing her firm at a Guangzhou fair



22/28

Dai Jiaying (Wing), December 2006, Shanghai

Chen Zhi (Grace) in Hollywood, September 30, 2006

Shining Zeng Qian (Tracy) on her birthday



23/28

In Chengdu, China, Wendy organized a Dutch event: the Chinese hostesses in Volendam costume

Lu Wang (Lulu), October 12, on a Dutch train

15. Events, birthdays and an overwhelming recipe

Meet a Master Sculptor: Rodin

Those living in the Shanghai area have a unique possibility to see many of Rodins works

until February 18th 2007. Shanghais Sculpture Space, housed in what was once the

Shanghai Steel Company's Factory Number Ten, has been a success since it opened in

2005. Besides the best of Chinese contemporary art, it also offers temporary exhibitions,

such as this show of replicas of work by Auguste Rodin. Born in 1840, the French

sculptor had become famous by the turn of the century for his skilled, emotive modeling.

This exhibition displays more than 30 replicas of Rodins most famous sculptures,

including The Thinker (used as an example of thinking inside / outside the box by

PvO in one of his historical power point presentations, which some of you might

remember), Balzac and The Age of Bronze. Also featured are numerous etchings by

Rodin, as well as photographs and manuscripts.

Shanghai Sculpture Space, 570 Huaihai Xi Lu. Daily 10am to 4pm. Tickets: 20 yuan.

For more from theShanghai cultural calendar, check:http://www.economist.com/cities/displayobject.cfm?obj_id=5652950&fsrc=nwl

Balzac, by Auguste Rodin, 1891-98

http://news.economist.com/cgi-bin1/DM/y/hz7V0NSaKD0Mo0DL7W0EThttp://news.economist.com/cgi-bin1/DM/y/hz7V0NSaKD0Mo0CcIa0EJhttp://www.economist.com/cities/displayobject.cfm?obj_id=5652950&fsrc=nwlhttp://www.economist.com/cities/displayobject.cfm?obj_id=5652950&fsrc=nwlhttp://news.economist.com/cgi-bin1/DM/y/hz7V0NSaKD0Mo0CcIa0EJhttp://news.economist.com/cgi-bin1/DM/y/hz7V0NSaKD0Mo0DL7W0ET


24/28

Birthdays until April 1

NB: if we miss a birthday, or mistake a date or name, please notify us.

Nguyen Thuy Duong (Tracy) December 23

Ritesh Kharel December 25

Deniz Kooij - Tatl January 1Chen Xiaole (Lily) January 11

Sun Wei (Aaron) January 15

Cui Yi (Stella) January 16

Nguyen Thi Thuy Lan (Lan) January 16

Guan Rui (Phebe) January 18

Yuan Fangbing (Amanda) January 22

Ma Huayin (Shirley) January 25

Suman Pudasaini February 1

Nga Tran Thi Huyen (Anna) February 2

Nguyen Thi Hai Ha (Jenny) February 8

Nguyen The Thanh (Thanh) February 9

Lale Ustuner February 10

Zhang Xi (Cici) February 11Wang Jianguo (Vincent) February 14

Tran Duc Cuong (ChoCho) February 25

Tran Thu Thao (Amy) March 2

Luo Man (Romana) March 5

Zhu Xinglian (Rage) March 8

He Xiaokai (Jamie) March 9

Wang Hailong (Peter) March 14

Eew Sawaluck Suwannawong March 20

Yu Xiangyi (Jack) March 27

Bee Ketnim Sarawut March 29

TEQUILA CHRISTMAS CAKE1 Cup Water 1 Tsp. Baking Soda 1 Bottle of Tequila

1 Cup Sugar 1 Tsp. Salt 4 Large Eggs

1 Cup Brown Sugar Lemon Juice Nuts & 2 Cups Dried fruit

Sample the Tequila to check quality (I already sampled it - several times - to check the quality) .

Take a large bowl. Check the tequila again. To be sure it is of the highest quality, pour one level cup and drink.

Repeat.

Turn on the electric mixer.

Beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl.

Add one teaspoon of sugar. Beat again.

At this point its best to make sure the tequila is still OK. Try another cup...just in case.

Turn off the mixerer thingy.

Break 2 leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the cup of dried fruit. Pick the fruit up off the floor.

Mix on the turner.

If the fried druit gets stuck in the beaterers just pry it loose with a drewscriver.

Sample the tequila to check for tonsisticity.

Next, sift two cups of salt. Or something.

Check the tequila.

Add one table.

Add a spoon of sugar, or somefink. Whatever you can find.

Greash the oven.

Turn the cake tin 360 degrees and try not to fall over.

Dont forget to beat off the turner.

Finally, throw the bowl out the window. Finish the tequila and wipe counter with the cat.

CHEERY MISTMAS !



25/28

Some impressions of the culture-in-business event, held in DDU, December 19 2006.

Not really like the Cultural Evenings, we had in the past More or less like the Multinational Cultural Evening should

have been (but this one never took place) Presentations at daytime about the different habits in different cultures,

related with business-occasions. There-after a great Chinese Buffet was waiting in the canteen and Trees, Albert and

Esther were guests-of-honor, because they recently left the organization (and we did not have the chance yet to say

Thank You & Good Bye!). Just a few pictures of the many which were taken at the different moments. No furthercomment except for I almost forgot! the short, but heartbreaking speech Suman Pudasaini held, specially directing it

to Miss DDU, Esther His reason to do that? Well, Suman intended to leave DDU after last summer, because of all the

bad rumors and such, but a miracle happened! Angel Esther persuaded him to stay and hes still very happy with it!



26/28

16. This issues Song Lyric: I Believe in You, as sung by Bette Midler

Reading these lyrics I dedicate them to mind your own business . These lyrics (Don Gibson / Bette Midler) read

like a creed: I agree with nearly every line just a few details, like Johnny Carson would be Harrison Ford. What

else to add? Perhaps that back in 1977 my old friend Hans, attempting a career as a reporter and himself an avid Midlerfan, waited in Bette Midlers Amsterdam hotel room to interview her after her show. She didnt appear, Hans fell asleep

in a comfortable chair and dreamed of making love with her (well, thats what he told me). Next morning Hans woke

up, in that same chair with Bette in her morning gown serving him a royal breakfast. She believed in dreamers

(DVD: Diva Las Vegas. A live performance at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, 1997)

Bette Midler in 1977



27/28

I Believe In You

I dont believe in superstars,in fancy food or foreign cars;

that Haagen Dazs and motherhood

have done my body any good;that Elvis is alive and well;

that courtesy has gone to hell;that kindness is in short supply;

that little kids should have to die.

But I believe in love.I believe in dreamers.I believe in miraclesand I believe in you.

Well, I dont believe virginityis as common as it used to be;

that left is wrong and right is right;that black is black and white is white;that the Beatles could be history,

the sixties just a memory;that war will never go away;

that Johnny Carsons had his day.

But I believe in love.I believe in angels.

I believe in Mom and Dadand I believe in you.

I know with almost certaintywhats going on with you and me

is a good thing.I know its true.I believe in you.

Now, I dont believe that heaven waitsfor only those who congregate.I like to think that God is love.

Hes down below, Hes up above,and Hes watching people everywhere.He knows who does and doesnt care.

And Im an ordinary girltrying to make my way in this old world.

And I believe in love.Yes, I believe in music.

I believe in promisesand I believe in you.

You know, darlin, that I believe in love.Yes, I believe in dreamers.

I believe in miraclesand I believe in you.

(Original song & lyrics by Don Gibson; Bette Midler changed a few lines)



28/28

My ultimate lecture spot

Peter & Loek

wish you

a happy holiday season

&

a mighty 2007

full of marvels!

Christmas card, which little Hilde made for Loek and his wife Nelly. The meaning: the mailman, delivering a letter with

congratulations for Mary and Joseph, because of the birth of Jesus

Date post:	30-May-2018
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